SAFE & GREEN HOMES, GUATEMALA
With the Safe & Green Homes project, 542 families will receive a home kit with three simple yet effective technologies: a solar power system for light and electricity, a water filter for safe drinking water, and a fuel-efficient cookstove that enables safe and healthy cooking.
LOCATON
Alta Verapaz , Guatemala
TIMELINE
2025-2026
THEME
Renewable energy, water, climate
The Alta Verapaz department in Guatemala is rich in natural resources, yet it is severely affected by deforestation and soil degradation. More than 80% of the population lives in poverty, and malnutrition rates, especially among children, are alarmingly high. In 2025, the region experienced its driest period in 30 years. Basic services such as clean water, electricity and sanitation are often lacking. Combined with the remote landscape, this makes it difficult for farming
families to earn a stable income and provide for their households.
For many years, Heifer has worked in this region alongside farmers, local authorities and partners on sustainable solutions through the Green Business Belt project. Building on the insights and results from this project, we are now launching the pilot project Safe & Green Homes. In many villages, access to essential services remains extremely limited: half of the rural households have no electricity, only 18% is connected to a drinking water network, and 81% of the communities has no internet access. This not only affects daily life, but also limits access to education, information and economic opportunities.
Target group
542 farming families, two schools and one health centre.
Target
A safer, healthier and more sustainable living environment for farming families in Alta Verapaz.
Results
- 542 families gain access to renewable energy, safe drinking water and clean, efficient cooking solutions.
- Diseases caused by contaminated water or harmful indoor smoke are prevented, leading to better health.
- Communities become more resilient to challenges such as climate change and food insecurity.
- A sustainable and scalable approach is created that can be applied in other regions.